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Encumbrance
Definition:
Encumbrance is a legal claim or obligation that restricts the use or disposal of a asset or a property right. It is a burden or restriction on the use or enjoyment of an asset or property.
Types of Encumbrances:
- Mortgage: A security interest in land that secures a loan.
- Liens: Secured claims against a property, such as mechanic’s liens or unpaid taxes.
- Easements: Legal rights to use another person’s property for a specific purpose.
- Wayleaves: Rights to pass over someone else’s land for a specific purpose.
- Covenants: Restrictions on the use or enjoyment of property.
- Reservations: Rights to a portion of an asset or property.
Examples:
- A mortgage on a house encumbers the property with a security interest for the lender.
- A mechanic’s lien on a car encumbers the vehicle until the bill is paid.
- An easement for a utility company to traverse a private property creates an easement on the land.
- A covenant restricting the use of a property for commercial purposes creates a covenant on the property.
Effects of Encumbrances:
- Encumbrances can restrict the use and disposal of the asset or property.
- They can create obligations for the owner or holder of the asset or property.
- They can affect the value of the asset or property.
- They can be transferred or assigned to third parties.
Legal Considerations:
- Encumbrances are created by law and must be recorded in the appropriate public records.
- The rights and obligations of the parties involved in an encumbrance are governed by law.
- Encumbrances can be discharged or released under certain circumstances.